KUCHING: Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd (Sarawak Metro) has taken an important step to improve accessibility in Kuching’s public transportation system.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with IJM Land Berhad and Liang Court Wanisara (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd for the construction of a linkway to one of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) stations along the Blue Line of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS).
The agreement was formalised by the CEO of Sarawak Metro Mazli Mustaffa, CEO of IJM Land, Datuk Wong Tuck Wai, and Director of Liang Court Wanisara (Sarawak) Tan Chong Ing @ Tan Chong Ling.
Mazli highlighted the importance of private sector partnerships in advancing the KUTS project.
“We encourage more private sector involvement to work together on innovative solutions that will create a positive impact on our future modern public transport system,” he said.
“The linkway will provide connectivity and accessibility for the surrounding community and facilitate the integration of the KUTS project with developments in the area,” he added.
The ART station, he added, designated SM05, is strategically located near the Sarawak Heart Centre in Kota Samarahan.
The planned linkway will connect this station to a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) to be built nearby, enhancing accessibility and convenience for the surrounding community.
The MoU outlines proposals for the construction of an overhead connector directly linking the station, along with the development of a ‘Walking and Cycling Plan’ (WCP) and the implementation of smart mobility solutions, including an e-bicycle system.
The signing ceremony, held at Menara SEDC, was witnessed by General Manager of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Datuk Abdul Hadi Datuk Abdul Kadir, and SEDC Deputy General Manager Rakayah Hamdan.
